Compassion In Action

Take 2-3 minutes to quiet yourself and ask God to speak to you today through your devotional time.  

Reading: Matthew 9:35-36, Luke 10:25-37

 Be sure to highlight or note anything that stands out to you while you read.  
After reading the passage, take the next 5-10 minutes and spend time reflecting on what you read. You can write these things down in a journal or record them in your phone. Be attentive to both what you highlighted in the passage and what is going on in your life.

Jesus' heart was moved with compassion when He saw the crowds. He didn't just feel sorry for them; He acted. As you read about Jesus' compassion and the parable of the Good Samaritan, ask yourself: How do I respond to the brokenness I see around me? Do I turn away, or am I moved to action? Pray for God to soften your heart and open your eyes to the needs of others. Choose one person in your life who might be feeling "harassed and helpless," and reach out to them today with a gesture of Christ-like compassion.

When you encounter brokenness around you, do you respond with compassion or turn away? What might be holding you back from acting?

Now, take 10 minutes to seek God in prayer…  

1. Begin your time in prayer by taking 1-3 minutes to sit in silence (You can take longer if you sense the Spirit already beginning to speak to you).    
2. Pray through the things you sensed God speaking to you through the Scriptures or pray the following prayer: Jesus, soften my heart and open my eyes to the needs around me. Help me not just to feel compassion but to act on it, reflecting Your love to those who are hurting. Amen.
3. Close by taking 5 minutes to sit in silence, asking God if there is anything else He wants to speak to you today.  

Take Action:
Reach out to someone who might be feeling "harassed and helpless." A kind word, prayer, or small gesture can make a big difference.